Firefight: Modern U.S. and Soviet Small Unit Tactics (1976)

Firefight: Modern U.S. and Soviet Small Unit Tactics

Firefight: Modern U.S. and Soviet Small Unit Tactics is a tactical wargame simulation of modern combined arms combat in the seventies. It was originally published by Simulations Publications, Inc. (SPI) in 1976. The game was the commercial offspring of an SPI contract with the US Army to develop training (simulation). The game is set in Containment Zones established by The Corporation in the Warpath Universe, which has a vast and storied history brimming with reports of planetary invasion, vile experiments, and massed armies.

Why is Firefight: Modern U.S. and Soviet Small Unit Tactics Popular?

Firefight is popular among wargamers due to its exciting background and lore, which is set in the Warpath Universe. The game is also significant because it was developed as a training simulation for the US Army.

Game Components of Firefight: Modern U.S. and Soviet Small Unit Tactics

Maps: Two 22” x 34” hex grid paper maps scaled to 50 meters per hex, covering about 3 km of terrain similar to eastern West Germany.

Counters: 400 double-sided ½” die-cut counters representing individual vehicles, crews, and small infantry units.

Rulebook: A 20-page rulebook and a 20-page reference data booklet.

Dice: Two six-sided dice.

How To Setup Firefight: Modern U.S. and Soviet Small Unit Tactics

To set up the game, players need to assemble the maps, sort and place the counters according to the scenario being played, and ensure each player has the necessary rulebooks and dice. The game includes five scenarios for *Firefight I* and *Firefight II*, and four more scenarios for *Firefight III*, each detailing the deployment of units and objectives.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Each turn consists of four phases: Direct Fire Phase, Movement Phase, Suppression Marker Removal Phase, and Indirect Fire Phase. Players roll a die to determine who moves first each turn.

Unit Actions: Units can either move or fire, but not both in the same turn.

Time and Map Scale: The game operates on a 40-second time scale per turn, with a map scale of 50 meters per hex.

Unit Types: Includes various U.S. and Soviet units such as fire teams, machine gun teams, armored personnel carriers, tanks, and artillery units.

Objective: The objective is to outmaneuver and defeat the opposing forces, simulating the harsh and lethal nature of modern mechanized combat.

Player Experience

**Firefight** is known for its detailed and complex rules, which are designed to be learned gradually through three levels of modular rules and scenarios (*Firefight I*, *Firefight II*, and *Firefight III*). This approach helps beginners understand the game mechanics without feeling overwhelmed. The game is praised for its realism and the high casualty rate, reflecting the intensity of modern battlefield combat.

Pros

Gradual Learning: The game’s modular rules allow players to learn and adapt gradually.

Realism: High level of detail in simulating modern mechanized combat, making it very realistic.

Engaging Gameplay: The game is enjoyable and playable in an evening, even for less experienced gamers.

Cons

Complexity: The rules can be complex, which may deter some players.

Limited Historical Use: The game’s contemporary nature makes it less suitable for historical education purposes.

Personal Thoughts on Firefight: Modern U.S. and Soviet Small Unit Tactics

**Firefight** is ideal for players interested in modern tactical warfare and those who appreciate detailed and realistic simulations. It is particularly suitable for beginners who are eager to learn about small-unit combat tactics without being overwhelmed by excessive complexity. However, it may not be the best choice for those looking for a simple or historically oriented wargame. Overall, it offers a challenging and immersive experience that simulates the intense and lethal environment of modern mechanized combat.

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